Jason L. Aldridge, 38, is facing one count of felony animal cruelty.
Deputies responded to Aldridge's home at the Caroline Trailer Court on Saturday morning after receiving a report of a dog found wandering outside.
When they arrived, they found a 17-year-old German shepherd mix named Rocky, who appeared to be malnourished, emaciated and covered in fleas. Deputies said Rocky weighed 47 pounds.
The deputies were able to find Rocky's owner, who was identified as Aldridge. Aldridge told the deputies he didn't know the dog had left his home.
Deputies discovered Aldridge was feeding Rocky from a plastic bag of food infested with bugs, the report said.
The dog's bedding and area where he spent the majority of his time was soiled with urine and feces, and the food and water bowls were empty, deputies said.
Deputies said Aldridge told them that Rocky's health had been deteriorating, but he had not been to a veterinarian recently because he could not afford to take him.
Aldridge was arrested and taken to the Pinellas County Jail without further incident.
The investigation continues.
(BayNews9 - April 28, 2014)
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